October and November 2009

Since our last post we've installed the steering wheel, gas filter and air filter, but the major project has been the installation of the bed. We squared it all off, installed the cross bars, and fabricated some brackets to attach the bed to the frame properly. We still have to install the back brackets and cut the wood and metal spacers to fit properly, but are waiting for a warm day to finish off the project. Hopefully that will be soon and we'll post those photos later. Happy Thanksgiving everyone! (And Merry Christmas if we don't post before).

8-30-09 Update

Over the course of this week, we installed the steering column linkage, throttle cable, choke cable, spark plug wires, radiator hoses which needed to be trimmed, serpentine belt and custom fitted transmission lines, fabricated by Dad and myself. We found out that there are no longer any "experts" at the local car parts stores and drove all over trying to find the right belt and hoses, using our own knowledge and inginuity to get what we needed. But alas, we acheived our goals this week. Expect another update real soon!

August 2009 Update - Engine Mount Move, Shifter, E-Brake and Steering Column Install

Well, we're back in Fayetteville. Took some time off work to get a bunch of stuff accomplished. First, we welded the dash for more support. After that was accomplished we decided we needed more clearance between the engine and firewall, so we removed the engine and cut out the existing engine and transmission mounts, moving them 1 1/2" forward and rewelded them back in place. Next we decided to tackle the installation of the shifter, emergency brake and brake cables. Finally, we measured and cut the hole for the steering column and installed the steering column. We also did a bit of welding and cleaning up the metal inside the bottom of the cab for better support. Here are some photos for your viewing pleasure. Stayed tuned for the next installment very soon, which will include: steering linkage and gas tank.

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During the Christmas Holiday Dad and I started to assemble the new truck parts - New radiator support, fender skirts, door hinges, and numerous engine components. Due to time restrictions we decided to put off sandblasting the fenders and hood until the spring. We had our hands full with the current projects. Really happy with the progress and now it's time to start saving up for new parts - Drive shaft, gas tank, steering column, steering linkage - just a few of the many items we still need. Will update with further progress around April.

Update

Amazingly enough, despite my recent move to Florida, progress has not stopped on the truck. Instead of actual physical work on the project, Dad and I have been stock piling tons of new parts in anticipation of my visit to North Carolina at Christmas-time, when we will pick up where we left off. The current part list consists of the following: A New Radiator Support, Fender Skirting, and Door Hinges from Bitchen' Products, along with all the engine accessories. Dad and I will be very busy this Holiday Season - I'm looking forward to it, and to seeing the results of our labor!

Stay tuned! Another post is anticipated for January.

July - August 2008: After replacing the firewall, we used Grandpa's original design with the floor board he fabricated into the cab. This was a really ingenious design which ensured proper clearance for the transmission. In preparation of putting the cab on the chassis we realized the body mounts needed reinforcement, so we did a little welding to achieve this, then applied some undercoating, and put everything together. On a personal note, what a wonderful feeling it was to be able to adapt Grandpa's original idea with his floor board when installing the new firewall.